NAIMOS, Navy immobilise illegal mining equipment on River Offin amid armed resistance

The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), in collaboration with the Ghana Navy Special Boat Squadron, has returned to the River Offin in the Central Region to immobilise illegal mining equipment. The operation, which took place at Nipanekro in the Upper Denkyira West District, aimed to address the ongoing issue of illegal mining along the river that had previously met with resistance from Changfan operators.

NAIMOS personnel utilized an inflatable boat to navigate the river and reach the location of the mining equipment. Upon arrival, the team observed the miners abandoning their rafts and fleeing as they advanced towards the site. The security personnel subsequently pursued some of the operators, leading them towards Manso Tontokrom, where additional equipment was immobilised.

The operation faced a setback when a group of suspected illegal miners began gathering from nearby communities. Drone footage captured a group of individuals, some carrying pump-action guns, assembling about two miles from the operation site and threatening to confront the security personnel. Despite this challenge, NAIMOS maintained its position and opted not to engage the group, choosing to let the situation disperse without a confrontation.

NAIMOS Commander, Colonel S.K. Appiah, stated that the team intends to continue its efforts to rid the River Offin of illegal mining activities. The operation is part of a broader initiative to curb illegal mining and protect water bodies from further pollution.